Kentucky basketball coach Mark Pope talks about Texas freshman Tre Johnson. The Wildcats play the Longhorns on Feb. 15, 2025, in Austin.

Mark Pope hasn't been a head college basketball coach for a long time, but he has been excellent early into his career. Coach ...

Mark Pope played for Pitino for three seasons at Kentucky. He doesn't recall speaking with his former coach prior to the 2001 matchup. "Because I was probably pretty mad at him," Pope said Thursday.

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle. Mark Pope played for Pitino for three seasons at Kentucky. He doesn't recall speaking with his former coach prior to the 2001 matchup.

Pitino said his return to Rupp for the first time as a visiting coach in 2001 was "the toughest day of my coaching career at Louisville." He added, "the reception, it tore me apart." Pitino hopes ...

Now, at least as of now, Mark Pope says the Wildcats' starting point guard is still not cleared to play yet. Kentucky managed to get a big win in Knoxville without Butler, but they'll need him ...